Enedis warns of surge in fake agents and fraudulent home visits

France’s electricity distribution operator Enedis has issued a warning regarding fraudulent sales calls and home visits made by fake agents, following an increase in reported incidents. 

Visitors to the Enedis website are currently met with a pop-up alert reading: “Fake sales calls and fraud: Enedis urges caution! We have noticed an increase in fraudulent sales calls, emails and home visits from people claiming to work for Enedis.”

The statement warns clients against sharing their personal information, and encourages the refusal of any unscheduled visits.

The company, which is also responsible for the installation and maintenance of Linky meters, highlights a similar scam that sees fraudsters visiting people’s homes and charging a fee to modify electrical boxes. These fake agents say the measures will reduce energy bills and falsely claim the alterations are legal.

Read more: Enedis reinforces anti-fraud checks on Linky meters in France

How can I identify a fake Enedis agent? 

Enedis and its partner companies never approach clients with the intention of selling a product or service.

If a client arranges for an agent to visit their home, they will always be told the name of the contracted partner company when making the appointment.

A statement published on the Enedis website says that its official technicians carry a professional ID badge with their photo, name and company name. 

Scammers visit homes unannounced and may offer services such as: system inspections, support regarding supposedly imminent power cuts, solar panel installation, energy assessments, tree pruning, meter replacement, or even selling a limited-time commercial offer.

Read also: What is ‘electric box’ we have been asked to install at French home?

Fraudsters may also make phone calls or send scam emails and text messages aiming at obtaining your personal or banking details.

What should I do if I think I am being scammed?

Enedis reminds clients that they should never disclose personal information or banking details over the phone or by email. 

Victims can also refuse to let unannounced visitors enter their homes and can ask them to leave the property. 

The scam should then be reported to Enedis customer services using the relevant support form or by telephone on: 09 70 83 19 70.

Enedis states that scammers committing illegal acts face serious legal repercussions, and can be charged for “organised misleading commercial practices, punishable by seven years' imprisonment and a fine of €750,000, or even organised fraud, punishable by 10 years' imprisonment and a fine of €1,000,000.”

Read also: Two million households in France set to be charged extra energy fee